Best 2 Player Board Games (2023)

[@AllYouCanBoard]

What are your Top 3 2-Player Board Games? Let us know!

[@nuuqbgg]

Top 3 2 player games: 1: Unmatched 2: Hanamikoji 3: Haven War of the ring would make it at no1 but I'm seeing playing it soon. Two plays of it I had were brilliant.

[@scottmcfarlane7524]

1 Unmatched 2 Patchwork 3 Imhotep the duel

[@nuuqbgg]

Of the games that play more than 2 but are best at 2 (wouldn't play with more): 1. The Castles of Burgundy 2. Great Austria Hotel 3. Imperium: Classic

[@debbieholecek3293]

My top three two player games are: 1. Duel 2. Caper Europe 3. Getaway Driver

[@glenjust630]

1) Targi 2) Patchwork 3) Lost Cities

[@TurtleDude05]

Carlo coming through clutch with Carcassonne at #1! Don't let haters get to you man. I still have it as one of my top 5 of all time. #CarcassoneFTW

[@AllYouCanBoard]

You're right, the haters usually don't get to me... I guess I get ultra-defensive over Carcassonne because it was the game that got me into the hobby, so I feel a bit more attached. But you're right - who cares what other people think? Those of us who appreciate the game know how brilliant it is, and that's more than enough for me.

[@djradojevic]

My top three: 1. Schotten Totten 💪 2. Radlands 🔥🔥 3. Lost Cities 🗺️👓

[@MerrillWhiteKalEl]

You really need to play Splendor Duel. It is a lot of fun. I also really like Skulls of Sedlec, Air, Land and Sea and Land vs Sea.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

We absolutely need to try out Splendor Duel!

[@777ElCazador]

@@AllYouCanBoardI love regular splendor at two players

[@nitrorev]

​@@AllYouCanBoard Agreed on Splendor Duel. No better time to try it out now that it's on BGA. I find it fits the exact niche of what you were talking about that 7 Wonders Duel is a bit much for a non board gamer. Splendor Duel has the simplish ish rules of Splendor but with the sharpness of 7WD. It's actually kinda crazy how cut-throat it is given how passive normal Splendor is.

[@candle8389]

Dylan, you and I are both fighting the good fight of trying to get a consistent friend/adversary that enjoys Radlands as much as we do!

[@FBracht]

It must be a curse, and I’m afflicted as well.

[@IndianaGeologist]

Such a great list. Many of the games mentioned are games we adore and others will be on our to try list! Some of our heavier 2p favorites are Terraforming Mars, Arkham Horror lcg, and Spirit Island.

[@ObsidianKnight90]

Summoner Wars 2nd Edition is two player only and maybe the best head to head tactical skirmish game out there. It's also very portable and the main box has tons of space for all the expansions.

[@gregheath8106]

Love Summoner Wars

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Awesome game! I have a copy and we've played it twice, we both really enjoyed it and I could see it getting better with more plays. Next time we revisit this 2-player games list I wouldn't be surprised if Summoner Wars was in my top 10. Which of the expansions / faction decks would you recommend most, if I was going to expand beyond the 6 in the base set? - Carlo

[@ObsidianKnight90]

​@@AllYouCanBoard The Skyspear Avians are very fun, they can move 1 extra space fly over other units which makes them very mobile and allows for sudden, explosive offensives and tactical retreats. I also recommend the Phoenix Elves, which come with the Starter Set alongside the Tundra Orcs, as the Phoenix Elves have some very neat tricks involving forced movement and positioning. Both factions are great because they use the game's board and positioning in very cool, and very different, ways.

[@Viragomp]

I love that you guys champion great games regardless of their age. I can't tell you how refreshing it is to see older games prominently featured, as well as the inevitable newer titles. 😊

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Thanks for the kind words! So many of our favourite games are older, and we know the "cult of the new" is strong in board games these days. It's unfortunate how many older games get overlooked in favour of the new "hotness". Thanks for watching!

[@mikesied]

the Lost Cities hand mechanic has been around for ages. It is called Gin

[@thinwhitedukereturn]

I'm really surprised no one is suggesting Jaipur! It is a tight two-player only game with a strategy that I have yet to get on top of... 😩 I love your channel. Keep on gaming!

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I LOVE Jaipur! It was very close to making my list, just lots of competition. I've had it in my collection for a long time though and don't think I'll ever get rid of it. -Dylann

[@jonnytenebrous1113]

Jaipur is a great suggestion! After a number of failed attempts spanning many years, this is the "gateway" game that finally got my wife to not only engage in gaming with me, but to do so enthusiastically and proactively. It will always have a place in my collection!

[@jacfinlayson9989]

Loved both of your lists. Some I really want to try. I’m enjoying Meadow at 2 players at the moment. Can’t imagine my group of 4 playing because of AP potential but two of us are having a blast with it

[@DesperadoBloo]

Stellar is such an overlooked game. Glad to see it on someone's list!

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I'm thankful Dylann randomly saw it in a game store and took a chance on it a couple years ago - neither of us knew anything about it until then. - Carlo

[@Andalosity]

I dunno if it's always been there and I just didn't notice, but I LOVE the chapters on the right you guys have. Very helpful.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

If we're thinking of the same thing, I think those have always been there, but maybe depending on the device you're using the default settings might've been changed to automatically be on rather than off. Who knows, just glad to hear you're finding them useful. Thanks for the feedback!

[@stevekingswell9143]

Yeaaaaaaaaahhh Keyforge, it’s my number 1. So glad it gets some recognition by a reviewer. Great lists guys.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I never really see anyone in the board game space talk about KeyForge, at least not to the same degree as other card games which is a real shame. - Carlo

[@rgitzelify]

Dylann, I'm positive the super fancy Castles of Burgundy is still available as a late pledge for another month or two. We finally gave in. :D

[@AllYouCanBoard]

That's awesome! I won't take the plunge on it yet, still getting lots of mileage out of my original copy haha. But one day I'd love to have it!

[@chaosinthechasm]

Great lists! My fave are #1 Res Arcana, #2 RFTG, #3 Castles of Burgundy

[@kylehynes2888]

great lists! Castles of Burgundy is probably my favorite of all time. Carcassonne is also one of my all time favs and was one of my earlier/gateway games as well!! Great content! keep up the great work Dylann and Carlo!

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Thanks, Kyle! It continues to surprise me how many people these days still tell me their gateway game was also Carcassonne. What would we all be doing with our free time today if it was never designed?! Would we still be into board games? What would our gateway game have been if not for Carcassonne? - Carlo

[@Gathanokos]

So many amazing games, you are so right to have Carcassonne, RofG, and Res Arcana on this list. Definitely recommend playing Citadels with 2 players! Think it's the best if you like to have a little bit of strategy than randomness XD Also, recently I really enjoyed That Time You Killed Me (actually mentioned this in your last video so moving on-) So my top 3 (intentionally excluding games that are on your list) would be 1) TTYKM 2) Watergate 3) Citadels Zoollywood and Raptor are also nice...so many good 2 player games!! I really want to try Sakura Arms, heard amazing stuff about that one.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Interesting, I've only ever played Citadels with 5 or more, and it always felt too long and with too much downtime. I'd be interested to try it with 2 players because I like a lot of what it does, I just wish it played more like a quick filler game. And good call on That Time You Killed Me, I need to try the last module or two so I can start playing a few rounds of the full game and then I'll review it in some fashion on the channel, hopefully soon. Watergate is a really solid design, I just wish I could get into the theme more. If they ever re-theme it I might buy my own copy. I also really want to try Raptor and Sakura Arms. As always, thanks for watching and commenting! - Carlo

[@billable1861]

Raptor is so underrated it’s a great little asymmetric game that is relatively quick playing.

[@glenjust630]

Anyone talking ‘bout Targi? Come in peeps! It’s often mentioned as one of the best two-player games and it definitely is my favorite.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

We talked about it briefly at the end of this video, we've played it a few times on BGA and we both understand why other people like it but neither of us has enjoyed it all that much so far. I thought it was fine and designed well, but I didn't actually have fun playing it. Maybe we need to try it in person one day. - Carlo

[@glenjust630]

@@AllYouCanBoard Sure, everyone has their own likes and tastes for things. Really enjoy you awesome Canadians to the North (I live in Indianapolis). Spreading word to other Canadian and American gamers I know of all the hard work and great channel you have! Enjoyed you guys for a few years now.

[@denizkandemir9744]

Do not like Targi 🤢

[@TurtleDude05]

@Glen Just Hello fellow Hoosier. I too am an Indy native. 👋

[@kylaulbricht]

I bought Targi, so excited to play it , and my husband did not like it at all. I thought it was ok. We’ll try it a few more times but I’m not sure it’s a keeper for us. I can see why others may enjoy it.

[@adamsteineke4661]

Castles of Burgundy just relaunched! The new version is so PRETTY... I'm not into the 3d models, it's difficult to tell what they are, but the acrylic tiles are amazing.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Yeah, we haven't seen the new version in person but based on photos and videos I felt the same way. The minis seem unnecessary but who wouldn't want the upgraded tiles? - Carlo

[@ng66]

Thanks, now I have some we have to check out. Santorini is being recommended all over the place and will probably be our next purchase. That and Radlands. Our favorite 2-player games are Istanbul (we have the Big Box and love it), Splendor Duel (and traditional Splendor), Spice Road, Tiny Epic Galaxies, Carcassonne, to name a few. Thanks again for the suggestions!

[@jiafanfranklu]

Surprised Arboretum wasn’t on Carlo’s top 10! While I enjoy it at 3 and 4 players, 2p is definitely my preference.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Ah, I loooooove Arboretum but I much prefer it with 4 (or 3) players, I never really play it with 2. I know I'm in the minority in that though, I actually did a video on that a while ago. - Carlo

[@jiafanfranklu]

@@AllYouCanBoard Oh shoot, I must have missed or forgot about that video, my bad. For a 3-4p game, you only really care about what the next player is doing, and only if you think they're a threat to you winning. You can kick the responsibility of blocking the other players down the road. For a 2p game, every single card you put down / discard is directly impactful and you have to think about how to screw over your opponent while advancing your own potential scoring at the same time. The experience is remarkably similar to how Dylan described Azul.

[@jgutkind]

My favorite 2 player games are.... 1-Hey that's my fish 2-Nina 3-Downtown farmers market Always looking for something that is a easy to teach and fast play to bring to the table.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Interesting, I haven't even heard of Nina or Downtown Farmers Market so I'll have to look into those. Thanks for bringing those to my atttention! - Carlo

[@hisfantor]

I really like that you are using chapters to structure the video and make it easy to skip between numbers, but putting the name of the game there instead of # number would be so much more useful, not only for scrolling through but also to have the name of the game in text form

[@JedeOff]

it would be useful but it would also lead to people just skimming through the chapters and end up not watching the video at all... which is not what they really want as content creators

[@Endeva09]

Videos are ranked on performance based on not just how many clicks but how much of them have actually been watched. I’f they named the chapters after the games people would just check the top 3’s and not watch the video.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Hi, we're late replying to this but just wanted to say - we've tried doing it both ways in the past, and whichever way we do it we always have some comments requesting that we do it the opposite way. Ultimately, we can't please everyone, but more people seem to prefer having just the # to avoid spoiling which games are featured. But thank you for taking the time to share your feedback, and thank you for watching!

[@Endeva09]

@@AllYouCanBoard and thank YOU for your reply! Great stuff 👍

[@monte2413]

Best 2 player also generally best board game for me is Unmatched

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Nice. I tried Cobble & Fog a couple times and thought it was a cool design, but I'm sort of an all-or-nothing guy when it comes to games like that, and I didn't quite enjoy it enough to go buy all the boxes and characters but I would gladly play it any time if someone suggested it. Super impressive how thematic the decks are for the characters. - Carlo

[@nathanlige2961]

Great list fellas. 2 player games are maybe my favorite to play. You've mentioned many that I like a lot. Here's my top 10, but I could probably do a top 25 quite easily. Unmatched Star Wars: Rebellion Sekigahara Hanamikoji Watergate LoTR: Confrontation Air, Land & Sea Star Wars: X-wing (2nd ed) Undaunted Stalingrad Targi

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Thanks for watching and for sharing your list. Great selection of games there.

[@yewonson6611]

Please please please try the Undaunted series!!! It’s guaranteed to blow your mind!

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I've played Undaunted: North Africa and reviewed it in one of our Own It, Play It, or Skip It episodes. I was impressed by the design but didn't love it enough to keep it in my collection, mainly because the theme/setting didn't really do it for me and I also showed it to 3 or 4 different people and nobody liked it enough to want to dive in and play a bunch more of it, so it kind of just sat on the shelf for a while. I might try the new Callisto version once that's released though, maybe the space theme will elevate it to another level for me. I love the deck-building system in Undaunted. - Carlo

[@hisfantor]

53:40 I recently designed a 3D-printable insert and dice tower for the original printing of The Castles of Burgundy. Increase fun and reduce setup and teardown time :D models can be found on printables (for free of course)

[@billable1861]

The hero we didn’t deserve

[@bushibayushi]

Great list guys ;). A few more (maybe less-known) games to consider if you like 2-player games (without going into wargame teritorry or heavy weight games) ;) 1) Kingdoms 2) Capital Lux 2 3) Mottainai 4) Space Hulk: Death Angel 5) Carcassonne: The Castle 6) Neuroshima Hex 7) Theseus: The Dark Orbit 8) Pixel Tactics 9) Medici vs Strozzi 10) TZAAR/YINSH/LYNGK or any game from GIPF series ;) Try them out if you haven't yet, Tzaar can be played in 10 minutes and it's TONS of fun ;). 11) Hive 12) Sun Tzu

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I definitely want to try any of those Tzaar/Yinsh/Lygnk games! I also know that Carlo has been desperately seeking Carcassonne: The Castle. Hive is also a great shoutout! One I've played a couple times. Thanks for the suggestions! - Braiden

[@DioneN]

Carcassonne is a great game and who cares what the haters say. 🙌🏼💖

[@AllYouCanBoard]

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@diamondmeeple]

Carcassonne is also my top 2-player game (and overall, but only as 2-player). The memory of the remaining tiles mixes up with the interesting choices. At the moment TZAAR (w/tournament setup 1 by 1 until the board is filled up before match start) is no.2. I struggle to decide if Through the Desert or Blokus Duo (no bonuses, two matches alternate start, lowest total surplus squares win) is my number 3... ughh! I also recommend you to try DVONN (tournament setup 1 by 1) and Tintas (Seal of excellence by Tom Vasel). My City, eternal side/mode have probably entered my top 10 lately. Carcassonne The Castle, Knizia's amazing spin on Carcassonne is also up there. I like to play it without the bonus tiles on the wall for less random. Santorini and Great Plains are both amazing 2-player, I agree. I have 1000 wins in Lost Cities at BGA... but it is not in my top 10.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I would really like to try TZAAR, Carcassonne: The Castle, and Through the Desert (which I have on my shelf but just haven't tried yet). I'll check out Tintas too, never heard of it before, thanks! - Carlo

[@diamondmeeple]

@@AllYouCanBoard Yeah Tintas is really smooth. A little gem. I believe like two webshops got it. TZAAR, no other game have given me a faster pulse than that game. You feel like being on a battlefield and fightning desperate for your life :-) If you buy Carcassonne The Castle or the nice polish edition, just say so, and I give you a rule missing from the english rules, also I can give you a clarification of the bonuses.

[@OoOoORickardOoOoO]

A bit more B-roll of the games you are showing would be so great. As a person looking for recommendations I feel that I need to stop the video and go elsewhere to find some board overviews etc. to get the context I need to understand your commentary.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Totally valid! It's something we will continue to work on 👍🏻

[@gillesbud]

1. Caylus (old version) 2. 7 Wonders duel + pantheon + agora 3.Raja the dice game 4. Shards of infinity 5. Res Arcana 6. Royal Visit 7. Codex Naturalis 8. Splendor Duel 9. Botanik 10. Teraaforming Mars + prélude

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I've actually only played 3 of these (TM, Res Arcana, 7WD), and I don't know much about Codex Naturalis or Botanik other than what the covers look like, but I really want to try the other ones. - Carlo

[@tbahr123]

Carlo was a big reason I finally checked out Race for the Galaxy on BGA and I am very glad I did! It took 5 plays or so to get the hang of it but once I did it’s so much fun. Such interesting decisions in such a short time!

[@AllYouCanBoard]

It definitely takes a few plays to know what's going on but I'm glad you stuck with it and are enjoying it this much now - it only gets better! - Carlo

[@draheim90]

2p games are a bit tough for me because there are a ton of good ones (many on your lists) that are solid games I’m always happy to play, but don’t necessarily love. And games that I really enjoy at 2 but they work just as well at other player counts (namely solo or 3p). Though there’s also 7WD, Caesar! and Carcassonne which are for sure my top 3. Should give a shoutout to a couple co-ops: Spirit Island and Robinson Crusoe. And a few not mentioned on y’alls list: Air, Land, & Sea, Agricola: All Creatures Big and Small, Hanamikoji, Hadrian’s Wall, Underwater Cities, Glasgow, Sniper Elite, Naga Raja, Unmatched, and Undaunted. I suspect Watergate and Fields of Arle will be hits once I get em to the table.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Air, Land, & Sea is a great game and one that I considered for this, but I haven't played it in a couple years now. Maybe I'll try Hadrian's Wall as a 2-player game at some point, I was pretty skeptical about it at first. Watergate is good, I just wasn't into the theme at all. Can't wait to try my copy of Fields of Arle too. - Carlo

[@draheim90]

@@AllYouCanBoard Hadrian's Wall is one of the few games of which my enjoyment is basically completely invariant across player counts. Works great anywhere from 1-6, provided everyone is playing at a somewhat reasonable pace. But playing at 2 does give the nice head-to-head vibe.

[@Lapoire11]

Innovation is my favorite 2P game of all time. Happy to see other solid choices such as Battle Line, Radlands, Lost Cities & RftG. AYCB, based on your choices, please consider trying HomeWorlds.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Like Carlo said, Innovation takes some time to appreciate it but I'm also a big fan! Thanks for watching! ☺️ - Braiden

[@flanker106]

If you like 2 player games I suggest Soul of Ankiril, a strategic card game that is coming on Kickstarter on 28th of February

[@RistoPisto615]

7 wonders duel is the only game i have ever flipped over...and i feel like half them games would go to same category :D

[@ricardomartin3898]

Thanks guys for your great videos and opinions. Just recent follower of your channel from Spain . Yours are new points of view, some games not published here yet, but new inputs are welcome or future ideas!!!

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@kd3739]

A game that never gets mentioned but we love is Saloon Tycoon.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I've heard of Raccoon Tycoon but this is the first time hearing of Saloon Tycoon... we'll have to check it out!

[@SMBrwnie]

The perfect video for me to watch/listen to while constructing a personalized version of the 2-player game, Paris: La Cité de la Lumière, for my fiancée for our Anniversary! Santorini has been on my radar for a while but hearing you guys talk about it makes me want to get it even more. Res Arcana also looks intriguing. I appreciate you both putting this list/video together!

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Happy Anniversary! That sounds so sweet ☺️.

[@SMBrwnie]

@@AllYouCanBoard Thank you! 😊

[@hippocket31]

Just found your videos last night and I'm enjoying them immensely. Hubs and I RV 6 months or so a year and it's been a quest to find good two players games that don't take up a lot of space, either in storage or in game play. Lost Cities is a favorite. We also have The Fox in the Forest, Jaipur, Star Realms (a fun but mean game!), Paperback, Guillotine, Seven Wonders Duel and Spirits of the Wild. Just ordered Patchwork, thanks to your recommendations. Thanks for the great reviews!

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Thank you for the kind words! Those are some great suggestions there too (I really want to try Paperback). - Carlo

[@psymonjet]

Another Carcassonne fan here!!! Maybe the game where I spent more time with. Have to say that maybe I win too much games on 2 players mode so sometimes can be a little be boring but still a huge game. In addition, not sure if you know it but Paleo is a wonderful 2 players coop option that is also a thematic modular game that can provide you tones of timeplay.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Our friend has Paleo and we plan on trying it soon, it sounds cool. Always nice to see another Carcassonne fan! - Carlo

[@psymonjet]

@@AllYouCanBoard You'll totally love it I think, try to stay away from spoilers and don't see any card before playing it :P

[@Alberto-mf4cb]

Paleo is a pretty inmersive and cooperative game, I really like it. Btw, I enjoy more playing it than winning it

[@AllYouCanBoard]

@@Alberto-mf4cb Our friend owns Paleo but we haven't tried it yet, hopefully soon!

[@Spoot1RHGL]

Give Android netrunner a chance, one of my favorite 2 player games of all time. There is even a really well made fan project called Null signal (Nisei) that is a worthwhile continuation of the game

[@AllYouCanBoard]

We've heard such good things about this game and would definitely love to try it out one day.

[@billable1861]

I spent a year trying to learn it and it sounded right up my alley but I sadly just couldn’t make it enjoyable.

[@alexvilla5277]

Great choices! What you say about Carcassonne is how I feel about Risk. Risk is not a luck fest either. It is constant social deduction and decision making. People slam it as ameritrash because of the luck in each battle. I’ve known people to go on massive win streaks in Risk. That’s not luck at all. Play the missions people! Ps. Burgundy is my favourite game ❤️

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Thanks, Jake! I know Dylann played quite a bit of Risk growing up... I didn't play much of it, but from the small amount I played, and what I knew from my friends and my brother who played a lot, it sounded like it definitely wasn't a luck fest. I would hear of the same players winning frequently, which indicates that luck isn't a big factor. Luck becomes a big factor when you leave things up to chance and simply trust the odds too much, so you almost need to over-plan in games like that to mitigate the (inevitable) bad luck (which will apply to everyone). - Carlo

[@rgitzelify]

Two-player only, our tops would be.... Jaipur, Stellar (thanks for that one!) and Botanik. Botanik works really well in brewpubs. Others.... yes, Castles of Burgundy! Azul (we're not as mean, but yeah you really have to pay attention)... Brass:Birmingham... And Keyflower! You think not getting mines in CoB is hard, wait until you have absolutely no way to generate wood. 😬

[@AllYouCanBoard]

The very first time we ever tried Keyflower it was as a 2-player game, but since then we've always gone back to it with 3 or 4. We like the added players for bidding on the tiles and just what it does for the disbursement of the colours of meeples overall, but we should give it another shot with 2 because it's just an amazing game.

[@FragRevel]

Watergate is great. Caverna Cave vs Cave, too.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Haven't played Cave vs Cave but you're right about Watergate - we just weren't interested in the theme so we haven't felt compelled to play it again. Clever design though and I would never turn down a game of it. - Carlo

[@scottmcfarlane7524]

I saw your stickers at Vitory Pints for your top games looks awesome guys

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Thanks, Scott! Dave and his crew are the best.

[@gregheath8106]

If you ever get a chance to play Omen: A Reign of War, you should. It's an amazing 2 player only game.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I've actually thought about buying this a few times in the past but I sort of forgot about it recently. I really want to try this (along with anything else from John Clowdus). - Carlo

[@marcho1649]

Carcassonne is a good number1. Got the big box 3.0 and we play it often. You should also try : Mindbug ( especially when you like Radlands) Or Challengers! ( fun with 2 - 8 players)

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Thanks! We actually JUST picked up a copy of Mindbug like two days ago but we haven't tried it yet. We grew up playing Magic: The Gathering for many years though, so we're always interested in anything Richard Garfield is involved with. We like Challengers! a lot and we actually just got the new version (Beach Cup) but haven't played it yet. We'll have more coverage of both games on the channel at some point this year. - Carlo

[@henseltbrumbleburg3752]

I'm curious on what either of you think of Onitama and Hive. Ive recently picked up Onitama and can't wait to play it, but Hive is a favorite of mine.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Hive is fantastic, and last time we did this 2-player games video a few years ago it was in my top 5. The problem is - sort of like Chess, you ideally want to play with someone of relatively equal skill level because the game has no luck. And also, the more I played, the more I started to see patterns develop, and then there was less variety/excitement after a while. I still think it's great but now I would prefer to play with the Mosquito and Ladybug expansions included (not a huge fan of the Pillbug, it makes the games take a lot longer). Onitama I've only tried a couple times and I thought it was a well-designed game but I haven't had the urge to go back and play it. - Carlo

[@maciejwawrzyn4674]

3. Citadels 2. Onitama 1. 7wd (especially with pantheon)

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I actually haven't tried Citadels with 2 players, it's always been with 4-6 and it usually takes longer than I'd like. I'd be interested to try it with 2 players since there would be less down time. - Carlo

[@samuelbrissette3004]

My top 3 games that play best at 2 player are: 1-War of the ring 2-Lost Cities 3-Splendor Duel

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Nice picks! I really want to try War of the Ring and Splendor Duel. - Carlo

[@christiannordin5328]

1. Unmatched 2. Unmatched 3. Dice Throne

[@GlowingWalrus]

Thanks for the recommendations you guys are awesome

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Thanks for watching and for the kind words!

[@MegaSNES64]

Caper Europe, That Time You Killed Me and Curious Cargo

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Curious Cargo broke my brain in a way I didn't enjoy (even though I respect the design), but TTYKM is amazing - I need to play through a bit more of it before I see if it becomes a top 2-player game for me. Caper: Europe I still have sitting on my shelf unplayed, not for much longer though! We'll talk about it on the channel soon. - Carlo

[@FBracht]

Was there a guideline about no coop games? Because, I mean, Marvel Champions was literally right there. Maybe you guys think of it more as a solo game, but I definitely prefer it at 2. And even though I’m more drawn towards competitive games, Marvel Champions is solidly in my top 3 of all time, and would perhaps take the top spot if I were to do a top 2p games list.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Nope, no restriction on co-op games. But we picked games that play best with 2 players, and maybe Dylann prefers Marvel Champions solo, I'm not entirely sure. Personally, I don't mind Marvel Champions but I don't love it so it wouldn't make my list either way. Overall, I think I only had 1 or 2 coop games in my top 50 of all-time - The Crew and Just One, and both of those are best with a lot more than 2 players. Thanks for watching! - Carlo

[@ManusNoble1988]

Fugitive is amazing (as is Burgle Bros)

[@AllYouCanBoard]

We haven't tried either one yet (I haven't even heard of Fugitive), thanks! - Carlo

[@jamesdillaman]

I agreed on carcassone, but Cascadia has replaced it as my fav 2-player game.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Cascadia is great and I will never turn down a game of it, but since you're each building your own little board/terrain, it lacks the player interaction that I crave from 2-player Carcassonne. I love drawing a tile and having to decide whether I use it for my own gain or to the detriment of my opponent (or sometimes both!). Thanks for watching! - Carlo

[@jamesdillaman]

@@AllYouCanBoard yeah I get that, it is more two-player solitaire, but that doesn’t bother me when playing with my wife. I agree it lacks the “gotcha” elements of carcassone, like sneaking onto their field or city.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Oh yeah, my comment wasn't meant to disparage Cascadia at all. It's a very good game, one that I'm happy to own and will play a bunch. And Cascadia is a much more relaxing, pleasant game, perfect for that short morning weekend game while having your coffee/tea or whatnot. I don't play Carcassonne with my wife at all, and I haven't taught her Cascadia yet but I have a feeling she'll like it much more than Carcassonne once I show it to her. - Carlo

[@LordRaif]

My partner and I don't tend to like playing competitive games but are looking for more co-op games that play well at 2 players. Do you guys have any recommendations for that?

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Hmmm, I (Carlo) don't personally play a ton of co-op games, but here are some I'd recommend for 2 players: - MicroMacro: Crime City (any one in the series is great, these are ideal for 2 players) - Pandemic: Iberia (best version of Pandemic that I've played) - The Loop (might be better with more players but still fun with 2, fairly light game but lots of fun cards to explore) - My City (polyomino tile-laying legacy game, Dylann and I played through this a year or two ago and we loved it) - Aeon's End (tough game and takes a while to setup but worth it if you want a deck-building game all about fighting big bosses) - Sleeping Gods (if you're looking for a game with a lot of story and exploration, but you have to be ready for pretty complicated rules) Those are the main ones I'd recommend based on what I enjoy. I know a lot of other people really love Spirit Island, Marvel Champions, Pandemic Legacy (which I haven't tried), Horrified (also haven't tried)... I'm probably forgetting some others right now. - Carlo

[@draheim90]

TIL My City is co-op ;)

[@jadeplaysboardgames]

Would recommend horrified, it has asymmetric monsters to defeat (with various difficulty levels) and characters to play. Satisfying when you defeat them together!

[@LordRaif]

@@jadeplaysboardgames Funny you mention this because we own both Horrified versions (Universal Monsters and American Cryptids). It's a big hit with us! Just looking for more stuff to try out is all :)

[@drccddmm]

When you two put those boxes on the floor or chair next to you, how hard is it not to peek at the other person's?

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Haha, it's easier than you think! Neither of us wants to know because we don't want to act/pretend we're surprised by the pick on camera, but we also think it's more interesting for the sake of the video. We're definitely careful about it though - I always bring my games over to Dylann's in a bag with something covering them like a jacket so he can't see, and then once I sit down with my games next to me, he'll get his off his shelves as I look away. Once we're both seated we can't really see each other's games.

[@AbombTheUnstoppable]

Summoner Wars Twilight struggle War of the ring

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Summoner Wars is awesome, we've only played it twice so far but definitely want to try it again. I have Twilight Struggle (digital) on Steam and have been meaning to try that any day now. And ONE DAY I'll try War of the Ring but it seems like a beast to teach/learn, and I would want to try it with the same person a few times. Thanks for watching! - Carlo

[@forestofpurple]

I’ve heard so many good things about innovation but I just can’t get past the poor art! Just can’t get past the teaching phase With my group but will have to push a little harder next time

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I don't blame you, the art on the BGA version is pretty dull. If you ever get a chance to try the version published by IELLO that one might appeal to you more - they completely re-did the art and slightly changed the layouts of the cards. There are some playability issues with the newer version but it definitely looks nicer and more polished. Between the dull art and the unusual ruleset it's a tough sell, and playing just 1 or 2 games of it won't be enough to appreciate it, so you really have to commit to playing it a few times. It's not a game for everyone but if you can get over that hurdle, it's sooooo good. - Carlo

[@JayChampagne]

Surprised to not see any Kris Burm games on the lists.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

That's fair, we haven't tried any of the GIPF games yet but we really would like to. Have heard great thing about TZAAR, YINSH, and DVONN, in particular. Any thoughts on those vs his other ones?

[@JayChampagne]

@@AllYouCanBoard Those are most people's favorites of the series. Yinsh is the most accessible. Tzaar is the fastest. Dvonn is the most cutthroat. I haven't played Lyngk, Gipf, or Zertz yet, though I own Lyngk and hope to get it to the table soon. Tamsk and Punct are generally considered very weak offerings, but all of his other games pack a lot of depth into a very small number of very clever rules.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Awesome, thanks Jay! Braiden (newest member of the channel, not seen in this video) has YINSH so that's probably the first one we'll get to play and discuss on the channel. We appreciate your thoughts on this, and thanks for watching!

[@zmollon]

1 Azul 2 Jaipur 3 Santorini Where are Braiden's picks though?

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Nice picks! We filmed this video a while ago and we knew it would already be pretty long with just the two of us, so maybe he'll do a list in a separate video one day. Thanks for watching!

[@coreynoemif3j29]

You know there’s a special edition of Castles of Burgundy coming out right? If you do then never mind if you don’t well there is, I was just a little confused when you said collectors edition. Did you mean anniversary edition? Kind of the same thing I guess. Also try Quarto if you haven’t already. That’s a game I just leave out on my coffee table for anybody to be able to play a game under five minutes with a one minute rules teach. Tic-tac-toe on steroids.

[@Boardandgame]

I was very excited to get hold of Santorini because everyone seems to say great things about it but we both found it boring, it feels like the game doesn't start until the end. I was gutted I didn't enjoy it and I wish I did

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Ah shoot, sorry if we led you astray! Too bad Santorini wasn't a hit for you, but we get it - not every game is for everyone. It's tough to strategize early in the game, especially when you're playing a new God for the first time, but the more you get to know the powers, the more you start to understand how you can shape the game from early on. But the tension definitely ramps up the longer the game goes. - Carlo

[@Boardandgame]

@@AllYouCanBoard don't worry I got it before I watched this vid, I'm finding that a lot with boardgames, I can't really go off other people's opinions because everyone likes different things

[@brianfoley1805]

Battleline: Medieval has better graphics for anyone interested in it.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

True, it definitely looks nicer than the old one.

[@magnumhoff]

Do you have any house rules for Carcassonne? We dont play the Farmers rules. It feels too difficult to see on the tiles. Perhaps it is easier to see on the regular game; we have the winter version. We also never score unfinished roads. Finally, we recently tried the variant where you always have three tiles in your hand and play one. That was quite an interesting change.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Nope, never any house rules - just basic, 2-player Carcassonne, no expansions, not even the River. Playing without farmers removes almost all the excitement and tension from the game, in my opinion. I don't think I would ever want to play it without farmers. I've never played the winter version you're referring to so I can't speak to that, but "seeing" the fields gets easier and more natural the more you play. Roads are usually one of the least valuable scoring methods already, so removing the scoring of unfinished roads feels like it would deter people from going for roads even more. The three tiles thing has been suggested before and I know some people like that, but personally I prefer the challenge of having to make do with what you get. Otherwise you can just save a tile for the entire game until the very end, waiting for an opportune time. I feel like it would cause more analysis paralysis and lead to longer turns. That being said - play the game the way you enjoy it most. Don't let me (or anyone else) tell you how to enjoy your games.

[@magnumhoff]

@@AllYouCanBoard Thanks for the reply. I think when we first got it, we decided to leave out the farmers rules the first few plays, but then liked the game anyway so just continued like that. But we're definitely going to give the proper rules a try next time and see how we like it. It will probably feel like a different game!

[@tinec9839]

If I don’t enjoy chess, will I like Santorini?

[@AllYouCanBoard]

It depends! What don't you like about chess in particular? Too complicated? Santorini could scratch that itch.

[@nuuqbgg]

Cmon!!! Roast our collections 😄

[@AllYouCanBoard]

It’s coming back, don’t worry! Stay tuned!

[@Exozik]

Why Dylann copy of Castle of Burgundy is in french (based on the cover bottom text)?

[@AllYouCanBoard]

It's an English copy, there's just an additional French language in the box so they put the title in French at the bottom of the box as well.

[@simonmcg23]

Nice list.. try Beer and Bread

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Oh they're tasty! I love beer and bre.... Ooooooh yes the game! 😁 Will have to try it out sometime. - Braiden

[@stuffnuggets-ashwoodrow4488]

Great video. I would add Thunder and Lightning Splendor Duel Sobek 2 player Abyss Memoir 44 Blitzkreig! Backgammon

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Thanks! The only ones there I've played so far are Sobek 2 Player and Abyss which are both solid games, especially Sobek. Haven't even heard of Thunder and Lightning, so I'll look into that one. - Carlo

[@stuffnuggets-ashwoodrow4488]

@@AllYouCanBoard Hey Carlo. I would say that if you like LoTR Confrontation then Thunder and Lightning could be a huge winner for you! Like a couple of the games on your lists it's a game that takes a couple of games to 'click' before the true depth of the strategies reveal themselves but when it does....phwoooarr! (Although I have found that to be true for most good 2 player games) The meta in it is off the chart, especially if you play with the same person often. Agonizing mindgames galore! We actually nicknamed it Scary Cards! Breaks my heart that it doesn't get more love. If Dylann loves Ceasar then he should try Paulo Mori's Blitzkrieg! for sure. One of the finest examples of a pure tug of war game you'll play in my opinion. Also, dont be put off by the WW2 theme in Memoir 44 (and Blitzkreig!). I have little to no interest in the theme and neither does my girlfriend but M44 routinely provides hours of phenomenally exciting and tense gameplay. Keep up the great work both. Best wishes from England.

[@ArnieHorta]

@@AllYouCanBoardyeah if you like Confrontation then Thunder and Lightening will probably work for you. Also a Stratego-like game, this time with cards.

[@rexgoodheart3471]

Of the games you've listed, Innovation is awful. All those instructions on all those cards is a lot to read, a lot to keep up with, and very tedious. Gave it away. Otherwise, very fine lists from both of you. I especially congratulate the unexpected selection of Carcassonne, which I believe to be so classic that it's now underrated. Other two player games that my wife and I enjoy are Kahuna, Port Royal, Splendor, Kingdomino, Jaipur, Splendor. As you can probably tell we go for those games with quick setup, tight instructions, but nevertheless clever gameplay.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Innovation was pretty off-putting for me the first couple of plays too, and honestly, if it hadn't been so highly recommended from one of my favourite podcasts, I might've given up on it. It's really tough to get into, both mechanically but especially just the look of the game. If you ever have a chance to try the version published by IELLO which has some actual art and nicer colours, that might make enough of a difference. Maybe have a look at it online to see if you think it would change your mind on giving it another shot, and if not, that's fine too! I know a lot of people who didn't really like Innovation. I really appreciate your comment there about Carcassonne, I've felt odd thinking of it as an underrated game but I think you're right about that. I would've never said it 5-10 years ago, but today it does feel refreshingly pure and refined while still infinitely replayable. We'll have to check out Kahuna and Port Royal, we've been hearing good things about those, thanks! - Carlo

[@silverhuber2396]

Keyforge!💥

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Soooooo good. Can't wait for these new decks to arrive!

[@branboom3342]

Screw the haters, Carcassonne is amazing

[@marcelrombouts8607]

Azul at no#5. I wonder how much higher it would land, considering there's a nifty mini/travel version out these days, at roughly half the price of the full size version.

[@EddieRyfari]

I don't think castles of burgundy will do another update in a few years. This Awaken Realms version looks so amazing there will never need to be another updated version

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Fair enough, but it's not necessarily about what people "need". Sometimes a publisher decides to make a new edition because they think people will get FOMO and want to own it either way. See Agricola 15, which I think should've never been made (at least not the way they did it). - Carlo

[@EddieRyfari]

@@AllYouCanBoard o yeah sure, publishers praying on fomo happens alot, cause it works :) I was just replying on the fact you thought you would get another chance in a few years for the next updated version. But I think it will be the retail version of this one. Great content btw, happy I found your channel

[@chloebackshall4588]

Really good list, I still want to play some of these games. Favourites in my house is Res Arcana, my daughter loves it and has just got the expansions for her birthday. Lords of the rings confrontation is my son's favourite 2player game atm.

[@jonio38]

I just found LOTR confrontation at the thrift store! I'm so excited that you like it this much. I haven't played it yet but it look interesting and was crazy cheap so I figured I'd take a chance on it. Thanks for another great video!

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I think you're in for a treat! Let us know when you play it!

[@Exozik]

Lucky you! I can't find it anywhere..

[@Exozik]

OMG! visited my local thrift store just in case because of your comment and I found a copy of it!! So glad I saw your comment in the list, thank you. :) I think it is the regular version but for 14$, it is perfect.

[@jonio38]

@@Exozik That's awesome!

[@dot1298]

2-player games i like: Arimaa, Dou Shou Qi (Jungle game), Hive, Gomoku, Stratego, Amazons, Phutball, Sprouts, Awale, Tak, Mastermind, Connect 6, Pünct, Volo, Abalone, Ataxx (Blobs), 9-men Morris and Shogun.

[@dot1298]

Oh i forgot some: Irensei, Renju, Pente, Epaminondas, Breakthrough, Lines of Action, Dots & Boxes, Go, Shogi, Xiang Qi and of course chess ^^ (edit) plus: Battleships, Roshambo, Latrunculi, (Hnefa)Tafl / Tablut, Onitama, Kamisado, Yoté, Yinsh, Gipf and Dvonn.

[@dot1298]

Of all above games, my favourite games are: Arimaa, Dou Shou Qi, Gomoku, Stratego (the variant where the computer marks already known pieces, as a memory-help), Hive and Tak. Chess i liked in the past, but its shortcomings has alienated it a bit from me, and that computers can crush me without any effort, so that it now is only in the top-10 of my games. About Tak i‘m not yet sure how much i like it, as it‘s also a very tactical game (which normally isn‘t my cup of tea), but it also has an interesting move-mechanic. If someone asked me about my personal top-2 absolute favourite boardgames of all time, it would be these: Arimaa and Dou Shou Qi; both of these are *extremely tough* for computers to play well against humans, which is one of the main reasons that i love them.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Thanks for all the suggestions! I haven't even heard of about half of these. - Carlo

[@JonoNZBoardGamer]

I play almost all my games at 2 players so figuring out a top 3 is hard. I don't know whether my favourite games are best at 2 because I haven't had a chance to play them with more players. Some games I love at 2 are Agricola, Clans of Caledonia, Targi, Santorini, Viticulture

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I love Agricola with 2 as well, but because I enjoy it more with 3 or 4 players I didn't really even consider it for this list. I really want to try Clans of Caledonia! First Terra Mystica, then Gaia Project, THEN Clans... - Carlo

[@gurnblanston2848]

I can't decide on an order for these, (it's more of a three-way tie for first) but my top 3 two player games are Unmatched, Dice Throne, and Radlands. I'll play any of them any time, anywhere, with anyone who wants to play.

[@veerchasm1]

Do either of you play CoB with expansions? Which ones if so? I agree on Targi. Once the novelty of it’s main mechanic wears off it becomes redundant and boring

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Sorry for the late reply. Re: CoB, no we haven't played with any expansions, just the base game. - Carlo

[@r.c.8042]

Mean Azul is best Azul! The potential for hate drafting is up there with sticking your opponent with a late-game cathedral piece on their large city that's nearing completion in Carcassonne. So nasty yet satisfying! My current top 5: 1. Targi 2. Rivals for Catan 3. Caper: Europe 4. Pandemic (Iberia or Fall of Rome) 5. Tie: Santorini or Backgammon

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I have a feeling Caper: Europe will be up there once we try it. I'm also a rivals for Catan fan! - Braiden

[@richwar2417]

Own 8 of the games listed. You guys should give Caper Europe a try if you haven't. I could see it becoming my top 2p game.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Thanks! I have a copy but we just haven't had a chance to try it yet. We will soon though. - Carlo

[@NeonDesire2011]

Carcassonne Base Game? Or which expansions?

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Just base game (not even the River) with 2 players. I much prefer the base game over any expansions. - Carlo

[@DiFFERENTversionOFmE]

An underrated game at two players (which the box says 3-6 players) is So Clover. It's easy and fun to sit down on the couch with my wife and play a few rounds.

[@guksungan1267]

Huh, that does sound like a good time. Do you see any reason during your plays why the box would exclude 2 player count?

[@DiFFERENTversionOFmE]

@@guksungan1267 Not really. I don't know why they chose to omit 2 players. Maybe there's a variant in the rule book, but honestly I haven't read the whole thing.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

hmm, never thought about trying it with 2 players, maybe we'll give it a shot!

[@nicolehage918]

Lots of overlap! I am definitely going to check out Stellar. My top 2 player games: The Castles of Burgundy Cascadia 7 Wonders Duel Yokohama Orleans Paper Tales Azul Summer pavilion Botanik

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Excellent choices. We haven't tried Botanik yet, but I've tried all the other games you've mentioned and they're all great. - Carlo

[@specialized2dirtshelly54]

Kites, Taverns of Tiefenthal, Azul, Flamecraft, and Radlands are our go to 2 player games lately.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Nice picks! Taverns of Tiefenthal doesn't get enough love. - Carlo

[@Janisurai]

I think you should have included games that are better at more than 2, but beat another game that you enjoy at 2!

[@ArnieHorta]

For me this would be… 1) Dice Throne 2) Santorini 3) Radlands 4) War Chest 5) Jekyll vs Hyde 6) Unmatched 7) Summoner Wars 8) 7 Wonders Duel 9) Magic the Gathering 10) Glyph Chess

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Nice picks! I really like Summoner Wars too but I've only played it twice so far. Not quite in my top 10 for 2-player games but it might be one day. And I can't wait to try War Chest. - Carlo

[@bmarchesani1]

That black ski cap looks stupid. Ditch it!!

[@Le0n00b]

My top 4 4- Splendor Duel 3- War of the Ring 2- Five Tribes 1- 7 Wonders Duel

[@AllYouCanBoard]

We NEED to try War of the Ring and Splendor Duel.

[@perezoso9206]

Castles of Burgundy at two players great game. I have no tried Carcassonne at two players yet. In relation to Race for the Galaxy, I remember that Alex from BoardgameCo once told that it was his favorite game of all time. He also told he burnt it out for playing it hundreds of times at the app, he said that he was so automatized that nobody could match him so finally he decided to sell the game. I always remember that horror story about board games.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

That's unfortunate, I didn't know he had that history with RftG but I understand when that happens with a game and everyone in your group has almost no experience with the game compared to you.

[@tonycork2pa469]

I envy Carlo's copy of Lost Cities with its 6th Expedition - Dylann's copy, like mine, is lacking/not all there :)

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I'm right there with you Tony! My copy only has five as well. BUT I consider us OGs. - Braiden

[@tonycork2pa469]

@@AllYouCanBoard Braiden, you'll be happy to know, you are not as old as me :)

[@Dragoneyes15198]

HIVE!

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Great game, and it made my list when we did our top 2-player games video the first time, I think in 2021. Over time I haven't played it as much anymore, mostly because I think it excels when you play with the same opponent over and over, and that hasn't been the case for me. - Carlo

[@denisereeder3966]

5 Tribes with all expansions is best at 2 players. Also the player I am playing with makes the game for me.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

Five Tribes is one we still haven't tried but I think we all want to. Thanks for watching!

[@paulrounding5260]

Sequence, good two player game, great 4 player team game.

[@AllYouCanBoard]

I've heard good things about this one but haven't tried it yet. - Carlo